Precision DC Voltage and Current Sources for Calibration and Device Testing
The ADCMT 6146 and 6156 provide precise bipolar DC voltage and current sourcing for calibration, component characterization, automated testing, and power-source simulation.
Both models support source and sink operation across a bipolar output range of ±32 V and ±220 mA, with continuous zero-crossing output between positive and negative values. This wide dynamic range supports applications ranging from precision signal generation to electronic-device power and battery simulation.
±32 V / ±220 mA
Bipolar voltage and current source/sink operation
100 nV
Minimum voltage resolution with the 6156
10 ms
Fast settling to within ±0.1% of the final value
5,000 Points
Internal memory for programmable source sequences
The 6146 provides 4½-digit generation with voltage resolution down to 1 μV and current resolution down to 100 nA. The 6156 increases generation resolution to 5½ digits, with minimum resolutions of 100 nV and 10 nA, respectively.
Multiple units can be synchronized for multi-source testing, and source timing can also be synchronized with a digital multimeter to reduce unnecessary measurement waiting time. Standard USB and GPIB interfaces support integration into automated measurement and calibration systems.
Bipolar Source and Sink Operation
Generate or sink voltage and current across a bipolar range up to ±32 V and ±220 mA, with continuous output through zero between positive and negative values.
High-Resolution Output
The 6146 provides resolution down to 1 μV and 100 nA, while the 6156 increases resolution to 100 nV and 10 nA for more precise source control.
High-Accuracy Generation
Voltage-source basic accuracy is ±0.025% on the 6146 and ±0.015% on the 6156, while current-source basic accuracy is ±0.03% and ±0.02%, respectively.
Fast 10 ms Settling
Voltage and current output settle to within ±0.1% of the final value in 10 ms or less, supporting higher-throughput automated testing.
Synchronized Multi-Unit Operation
Synchronize multiple 6146 or 6156 units for coordinated voltage or current changes across devices with multiple power or signal inputs.
DMM Synchronization
Coordinate source timing with a digital multimeter to minimize waiting time between stimulus generation and measurement.
Independent HI / LO Limiters
Configure separate high and low voltage or current limits to protect connected devices during source operation.
Thermal EMF Output on 6156
The 6156 provides a JIS-compliant thermal electromotive-force output function for thermocouple-based thermometer calibration.
USB and GPIB Interfaces
Standard USB and GPIB interfaces simplify integration into automated test, calibration, and production systems.
Meter and Instrument Calibration
Generate precise voltage and current reference values for periodic calibration of digital multimeters, meters, and instrumentation systems.
Semiconductor Reliability Testing
Supply stable voltage or current during aging and reliability tests of semiconductors, sensors, and other electronic components.
Electronic Component Characterization
Apply precise source levels for development and characteristic evaluation of electronic components, modules, and circuits.
Board and Functional Testing
Use the source as an embedded power supply or pseudo-sensor signal generator in automated board inspection systems.
Secondary Battery Simulation
Use bipolar source and sink operation to reproduce voltage conditions required when evaluating battery-powered electronic equipment.
Strain Sensor Evaluation
Provide a stable excitation voltage for Wheatstone-bridge circuits used in strain-gauge and pressure-sensor characterization.
Thermometer Calibration
Use the 6156 thermal electromotive-force output to simulate thermocouple signals for temperature-instrument calibration.
Automated Test Systems
Combine programmable source values, synchronization, USB/GPIB control, and internal memory for repeatable automated test sequences.
| Specification | 6146 | 6156 |
|---|---|---|
| Generation Resolution | 4½ digits | 5½ digits |
| Output Method | Bipolar source / sink | Bipolar source / sink |
| Maximum Output | ±32 V / ±220 mA | ±32 V / ±220 mA |
| Voltage Source Range | 1 μV to 32.000 V | 100 nV to 32.0000 V |
| Minimum Voltage Resolution | 1 μV | 100 nV |
| Voltage Source Basic Accuracy | ±0.025% | ±0.015% |
| Current Source Range | 100 nA to 220.00 mA | 10 nA to 220.000 mA |
| Minimum Current Resolution | 100 nA | 10 nA |
| Current Source Basic Accuracy | ±0.03% | ±0.02% |
| High-Frequency Output Noise | 3 mVp-p at 20 MHz | 3 mVp-p at 20 MHz |
| Settling Time | 10 ms or less | 10 ms or less |
| Thermal EMF Output | Not available | Available |
| Internal Memory | 5,000 data points | 5,000 data points |
| Standard Interfaces | USB, GPIB | USB, GPIB |
| BCD Interface | Factory option | Factory option |
Source accuracy, settling performance, and output characteristics depend on the selected range and operating conditions. Refer to the official ADCMT brochure for complete specifications.
